Another fully electric vehicle is on its way to South Africa with Lexus announcing the planned introduction of the RZ SUV, the first Lexus BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, to the country.
Following the launch of the first Lexus BEV – the UX 300e in late 2021 – the RZ brings Lexus a step closer in its aim of offering a fully electrified range of Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) by 2030.
What’s new?
It is a brand-new offering on the EV side to South African customers from the luxury manufacturer.
The big news is certainly the all-electric drivetrain with a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, which produces 230 kW of power and 435 Nm of instant torque to all four wheels and a driving range of over 400 km.
The new electric powertrain boasts e-Axle electric motors and DIRECT4 all-wheel drive and most important of all, with zero exhaust emissions.
Lexus says its designers have worked to ensure the all-new RZ maintains the famous Lexus benchmarks of exceptional luxury and dynamic driving, faithful to the Lexus Driving Signature.
Instant torque and all-wheel traction allow the RZ to sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 160 km/h. Exact local figures for South Africa will be shared closer to the launch date.
The RZ is underpinned by the e-TNGA platform designed exclusively for electric vehicles, providing a low centre of gravity, excellent handling balance and a long wheelbase.
A pair of electric e-Axles are mounted at the front and rear of the RZ; each comprising a motor, gearing and Power Control Unit (PCU) to calculate and instantly distribute infinitely variable power to each individual wheel.
The e-Axles operate in harmony with the Lexus DIRECT4 all-wheel-drive system, which constantly processes information, including vehicle speed, steering angle and G-forces to best utilise motor torque.
The RZ will launch in South Africa in the first quarter of 2024. Model grades available for sale will be confirmed at launch.
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Foton has started building vehicles in South Africa, and the first overseas vehicle manufacturing base of BAIC Group is now in Gqeberha.
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